The 20th century was a time of significant changes and innovation in the decorative arts, with new materials, techniques, and styles emerging throughout the century. Here are some of the key movements and trends that characterised the decorative arts in the 20th century:
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- Art Nouveau: This movement, which emerged in the late 19th century and continued into the early 20th century, was characterised by sinuous, organic forms inspired by nature. It was particularly popular in decorative arts such as furniture, glassware, and jewelry.
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- Art Deco: This style, which emerged in the 1920s, was characterised by bold geometric shapes, bright colours, and a focus on luxury and glamour. It was particularly popular in architecture and interior design, as well as in decorative arts such as furniture and jewelry.
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- Mid-Century Modern: This style, which emerged in the 1940s and 1950s, was characterized by clean lines, simple forms, and a focus on function and practicality. It was particularly popular in furniture and industrial design, as well as in architecture and interior design.
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- Pop Art: This movement, which emerged in the 1950s and 1960s, was characterised by bright colours, bold graphics, and a focus on popular culture and consumerism. It was particularly popular in graphic design and advertising, as well as in decorative arts such as ceramics and glassware.
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- Postmodernism: This movement, which emerged in the 1970s and 1980s, was characterised by a rejection of the modernist emphasis on function and simplicity, and a return to ornamentation, historical references, and irony. It was particularly popular in architecture and interior design, as well as in decorative arts such as furniture and jewelry.
Throughout the 20th century, advances in technology and changes in social and cultural norms also influenced the decorative arts, leading to new materials, techniques, and styles. Today, the decorative arts continue to evolve and adapt to new contexts and challenges.
